RismadarVoice Reporters, February 23, 2026
A fire outbreak has razed parts of the Fika Main Market in Fika Local Government Area of Yobe State, destroying goods worth millions of naira and disrupting business activities in the early hours of Monday.
The inferno caused extensive damage to shops and stalls, leaving many traders counting their losses.
Confirming the incident, the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), Dr. Mohammed Goje, said emergency responders were promptly deployed to the scene to contain the fire and prevent further destruction.
“We received a distress report of a fire outbreak at Fika Main Market, Fika LGA. Our response team, in collaboration with the Fire Service, is currently on the ground, working tirelessly to extinguish the fire and contain further damage,” Goje said.
He described the incident as heartbreaking, noting that it occurred shortly after the agency had reviewed reports and finalized plans to support victims of previous fire outbreaks in Bukarti and three other affected communities in the state.
“The scale of destruction is significant, and it has severely disrupted businesses and livelihoods. We deeply commiserate with the people of Fika and all those affected by this tragic incident.
“Government stands firmly with them in this trying moment and will continue to provide the necessary support within available resources,” he added.
Goje also expressed concern over the recurring fire incidents in recent weeks, describing the trend as alarming.
“The recurrence of these fire outbreaks is a serious wake-up call for both government institutions and individuals to urgently embrace and enforce critical fire prevention and safety measures, particularly in markets, homes, and public spaces,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and prioritize safety at all times.
“The loss of shelter and livelihood comes with emotional and economic shock that no immediate intervention can fully erase. However, through solidarity, preparedness, and collective vigilance, we can reduce risks and prevent further devastation. We urge all communities to remain alert, prioritize safety, and report emergencies promptly,” Goje stated.
As of the time of filing this report, the cause of the fire had yet to be ascertained.
